A 23-year-old man from Virginia Beach, Khalil Shariff Jackson, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing his ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend outside a bar in April 2023. Before the murder, Jackson searched for terms like “AR15”, “Virginia Beach Murder,” and “can you make a bullet untraceable.” He pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree murder and related gun charges as part of a plea agreement, with 18 years suspended, leaving 20 to serve.
Prosecutors say Jackson fired three shots with a rifle outside Parlay’s II on Princess Anne Road, killing his ex’s boyfriend, Amonte Walkup. The incident occurred just after 1 a.m. on April 7, 2023, as Walkup was shot in the head while leaving the bar’s parking lot in a car with Jackson’s ex. Jackson’s ex was able to escape, later identifying him as the suspect through surveillance footage. Jackson was arrested in Georgia on May 18, 2023.
Surveillance footage showed Jackson firing three shots and retrieving the shell casings before fleeing through a cut-through behind the bar. Jackson was reportedly upset that his ex, who is also the mother of his children, was with Walkup and that Walkup was around the children. He made threats to his ex, alleging he would kill her and shoot up her home. Jackson’s ex reported in later identifying him as the suspect to authorities.
As part of the plea agreement, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys David W. Laird and Joseph A. DiNonno handled the case, with Circuit Court Judge James C. Lewis imposing the 20-year sentence for second-degree murder and related gun charges. Jackson’s actions in the case were driven by personal conflict and jealousy, leading to a tragic outcome. The sentencing reflects the seriousness of the crime committed and serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of violent behavior.
The case involving Khalil Shariff Jackson highlights the dangers of allowing personal disputes to escalate to violence, leading to devastating consequences. The tragic loss of life resulting from Jackson’s actions underscores the importance of seeking peaceful and legal means to resolve conflicts. The 20-year sentence serves as a form of justice for the victim, Amonte Walkup, and a reminder of the importance of accountability in criminal cases. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for conflict resolution and the prevention of violence in communities to avoid such senseless tragedies in the future.
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26 Comments
Do you think 20 years for murder is too harsh or too lenient?
Its not about being harsh or lenient, its about justice for the victim and their loved ones. Murder is a heinous crime that deserves a strong punishment. 20 years may not even be enough. Think about the impact on the victims family before questioning the sentence.
Maybe the ex-girlfriend played a role too? 🤔 Just saying… #PlotTwist
Nah, dont think so. The ex-girlfriend is always an easy target for blame, but lets not jump to conclusions without any solid evidence. Lets focus on the facts before we start pointing fingers. #JustSaying
I dont get why he got only 20 years, shouldve been life in prison.
Are you serious? Life in prison for what? You must have missed the part where the judge considered all the factors and evidence. Its not your call to make, so maybe take a step back and let the justice system do its job.
I think the sentence shouldve been harsher! Justice served or not? 🤔
I think the sentencing is too harsh, should have considered self-defense angle.
Self-defense doesnt justify excessive force. The sentencing reflects the severity of the situation. Its not about being harsh, its about accountability. The law is there to protect everyone, not just those who claim self-defense.
I think the sentence is too harsh. Should have been more lenient.
Sorry, but rules are rules. If we start being lenient, where do we draw the line? Consistency is key in maintaining order. Sometimes tough decisions need to be made for the greater good.
Maybe the ex-girlfriend played a role too? Lets not jump to conclusions. 🤔
Its always easy to blame the ex, right? Lets focus on the facts instead of pointing fingers. Jumping to conclusions wont solve anything. Lets wait for more information before making assumptions. 🤷♂️
I think the sentence is too short for such a crime. Justice wasnt fully served.
Justice must be swift and strong. A lengthy sentence doesnt always equate to true justice. Lets trust the legal system to determine the appropriate punishment. Your perspective is valid, but the law must be followed.
This article misses the real issue – why is toxic masculinity still prevalent?
Toxic masculinity persists because society continues to reinforce outdated gender norms and expectations. Its time to challenge and dismantle these harmful beliefs to create a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. Lets hold ourselves and others accountable for promoting healthier expressions of masculinity.
Wow, do you think a 20-year sentence is enough for such a heinous crime?
Do you think 20 years is enough for a murder conviction? Lets discuss.
Wow, cant believe he only got 20 years for that brutal murder. Justice system fail?
Unfortunately, the justice system doesnt always deliver the outcomes we hope for. Its disheartening to see such leniency for a brutal crime. Hopefully, society can push for reforms that ensure perpetrators face appropriate consequences for their actions. Justice must be served.
Is 20 years enough for such a heinous crime? Justice or leniency? Lets discuss.
Justice must prevail. 20 years is a slap on the wrist for a heinous crime. No leniency for those who cause irreparable harm. Victims deserve true justice, not a mere fraction of what theyve endured. Lets prioritize justice over leniency.
What a wild story! Do you think the punishment was fair or too harsh?
Do you think the sentence was fair or too harsh? Lets discuss!
Was the sentencing fair or too harsh? Discuss. Lets hear your thoughts!